Modular mattress systems

ABSTRACT

Modular mattress systems include mattress modules configured such that a plurality of mattress modules are configured to form a first modular mattress of a first selected geometry and are reconfigurable to form a second modular mattress of a second selected geometry.

CROSS REFERENCE TO APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/137,629, filed Apr. 21, 2023, entitled MODULAR FURNITURE SUPPORT SYSTEMS, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/788,026, filed Feb. 11, 2020, entitled MODULAR FURNITURE SUPPORT SYSTEMS, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/707,568, filed on Dec. 9, 2019, entitled MOLDED MANUFACTURING FOR MODULAR FURNITURE, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/806,516, filed on Feb. 15, 2019, entitled INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING FOR MODULAR FURNITURE, all of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/788,026, filed Feb. 11, 2020 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE SUPPORT SYSTEMS is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/707,571, filed on Dec. 9, 2019, entitled FURNITURE STORAGE BASE, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/806,516, filed on Feb. 15, 2019, entitled INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING FOR MODULAR FURNITURE, all of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/788,026, filed Feb. 11, 2020 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE SUPPORT SYSTEMS is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/707,574, filed on Dec. 9, 2019, entitled FURNITURE SPRING SYSTEM, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/806,516, filed on Feb. 15, 2019, entitled INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING FOR MODULAR FURNITURE, all of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.

Each of the foregoing patent applications is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

BACKGROUND The Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates to modular mattress systems.

The Relevant Technology

Mattress systems that provide cushioning within furniture items, such as beds, are generally manufactured with fixed sizes and shapes. For example, a mattress typically includes internal springs and other components that are not configured to be modified by a user.

Mattress systems currently utilized in beds are limited in a number of ways. For example, typical mattress systems are not subject to modification by a user without significant deconstruction of the furniture item and costly reconstruction. Typically, when a mattress is worn out or no longer fits, it is more economical for the user to throw out the mattress and buy a new one rather than repair or alter the mattress.

Furthermore, the cushioning provided by typical mattress systems is such that the user cannot change the degree of flexion, or “firmness,” of the mattress system to alter the provided cushioning effect. Rather, the characteristics of typical mattress systems are built into a given mattress, and thus the degree of cushioning provided is predetermined by the manufacturer and cannot be changed by the user.

However, over time, changing the amount of cushioning provided by a mattress or changing other parameters may be desirable. A user's preference may change over time. Unfortunately, users need to buy entirely different mattresses to alter the firmness of their beds.

Accordingly, there are a number of problems in the prior art that need to be addressed in the field of furniture and mattress systems.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Principles of the present invention can be applied to modular mattress systems and bed systems, making the systems more efficient and useful, enabling the use of various parts in various sizes of mattresses and corresponding bed frame.

A modular mattress system of the present invention comprises a plurality of mattress modules configured to form a first modular mattress of a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to form a second modular mattress of a second selected geometry. In one embodiment, for example, each of the mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width or is substantially equal to two times the width (x). Such widths and lengths provide opportunities for a number of different opportune geometries, for example.

A mattress casing is configured to contain the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress. The mattress casing may be in the form of a self-supporting, rigid or semi-rigid structure, or in the form of a selectively closable bag or an elastic band, for example. The casing may be formed from a material that is rigid, semi-rigid, flexible, cushioned, and/or flaccid and may be comprised of fabric, foam, and/or elastic materials and other mattress-related materials, for example. A mattress topper, sized and shaped to substantially cover the mattress system, or to be integrally connected to the casing, such that the topper is integrally part of the completed mattress system, provides additional support and cushioning to a user.

A variety of other embodiments of mattress modular assemblies are disclosed. In another embodiment, a bed system comprises a plurality of mattress modules as described and further comprises corresponding modular bed frame bases to support said mattress modules.

The mattress modules of the present invention are made in standard, uniform sizes that are configured to be coupled to other modules to accommodate the various size and quality requirements of mattress users. The standardized uniformities in geometries and size of the mattress modules of the present invention enable the manufacturer to manufacture certain standardized pieces and enable the user to assemble the standardized pieces with other standardized pieces, making the manufacturing and assembling process more simple, reliable, and efficient. When one module of a mattress wears out or is no longer favored because of its particular flexibility or rigidity, the single module can be replaced or reoriented (e.g., flipped upside down, rotated, or otherwise moved) without replacing the entire mattress. As a person grows or needs a differently sized mattress because of space requirements in a home or apartment, the number of modules forming a mattress can be adjusted as needed without needing to buy an entirely new mattress. Thus, the modular mattress systems of the present invention artfully allow for the standardization, replacement, and convenient rearrangement of individual mattress modules rather than requiring the purchase of an entirely new mattress each time a portion of a mattress needs to be replaced or a new mattress size is needed.

The furniture components and methods disclosed in the present application may also be manufacture and/or used in connection with or in accordance with other furniture assemblies, such as but not limited to, any similar to those disclosed in (i) U.S. Pat. No. 9,277,826, entitled MOUNTING PLATFORM FOR MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (ii) U.S. Pat. No. 8,783,778, entitled MOUNTING PLATFORM FOR MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (iii) U.S. Pat. No. 7,963,612 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (iv) U.S. Pat. No. 7,547,073, entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (v) U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,885 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (vi) U.S. Publication No. 2017/0367486 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY CORNER SEATING SYSTEM, (vii) U.S. Pat. No. 10,212,519 entitled ELECTRONIC FURNITURE SYSTEMS WITH INTEGRATED INTERNAL SPEAKERS, (viii) U.S. Pat. No. 10,236,643 entitled ELECTRICAL HUB FOR FURNITURE ASSEMBLIES, (ix) U.S. Pat. No. 10,143,307 entitled FURNITURE SYSTEM WITH RECLINER ASSEMBLY, (x) U.S. Pat. No. 10,123,621 entitled FURNITURE SYSTEM RECLINER ASSEMBLY WITH SLED RAILS, (xi) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/300,148 filed Apr. 13, 2023, entitled ELECTRONIC FURNITURE SYSTEMS WITH INTEGRATED INDUCTION CHARGER, and (xii) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/178,319, filed Mar. 3, 2023, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SOUND LOSS THROUGH PARTIALLY ACOUSTICALLY TRANSPARENT MATERIALS, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only illustrated embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a modular bed system according to the present disclosure, including both a modular mattress and modular base to form a bed system;

FIG. 1B illustrates a cutaway view of a second modular bed system being combined with the modular bed system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2 illustrates a mattress module assembly according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure, wherein various configurations of mattress modules (with or without accompanying modular bases) are utilized to form mattress module assemblies (or beds systems through the addition of modular bases) of different dimensions;

FIG. 3 illustrates a modular mattress system according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure, wherein various configurations of mattress modules (with or without accompanying modular bases) are utilized to form mattresses (or beds systems through the addition of modular bases) of different dimensions;

FIG. 4 illustrates a modular mattress system according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure, wherein various configurations of mattress modules (with or without accompanying modular bases) are utilized to form mattresses (or beds systems through the addition of modular bases) of different dimensions;

FIG. 5 illustrates a modular mattress system according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure, wherein various configurations of mattress modules (with or without accompanying modular bases) are utilized to form mattresses (or beds systems through the addition of modular bases) of different dimensions;

FIG. 6 illustrates a modular mattress system according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure, wherein various configurations of mattress modules (with or without accompanying modular bases) are utilized to form mattresses (or beds systems through the addition of modular bases) of different dimensions;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a modular bed system according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of a selectively closable casing (e.g., a flaccid, fabric casing) of a modular mattress system in a closed position according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure, the casing having, in one embodiment, an integral topper in the upper flap thereof;

FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of the casing of the modular mattress system of FIG. 8A in an open position according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a casing of a modular mattress system as applied to contain a number of mattress modules mattress together to form a mattress according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 9B and 9C illustrate respective top plan views and bottom plan views of the casing of FIG. 9A containing a number of mattress modules to form a mattress;

FIG. 10A shows two different mattress modules of the present invention.

FIG. 10B shows top view schematic representations of the two different mattress modules of FIG. 10A.

FIGS. 11A-11I show top view schematic representations of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using pluralities of the mattress modules of FIGS. 10A-B.

FIG. 12A shows two different mattress modules of the present invention.

FIG. 12B shows top view schematic representations of the two different mattress modules of FIG. 12A.

FIGS. 13A-13H show top view schematic representations of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using pluralities of the mattress modules of FIGS. 12A-B.

FIG. 14A shows a mattress module of the present invention.

FIG. 14B shows a top view schematic representation of the mattress module of FIG. 14A.

FIGS. 15A-15H show top view schematic representations of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using pluralities of the mattress module of FIGS. 14A-B.

FIG. 16A illustrates an example of the mattress system of the present invention formed using pluralities of mattress modules of FIG. 14A, along with a casing in the form of a band, shown in a cutaway view, to contain the modules together.

FIG. 16B illustrates an example of the mattress system of the present invention formed using pluralities of mattress modules of FIG. 14A, along with a selectively closable zippered casing in the form of a bag, shown in cutaway view, to contain the modules together.

FIG. 17A illustrates top view schematic representations of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using pluralities of the mattress modules 204 and 206, which have the same dimensions but may have different stiffness levels, depending upon their placement in the mattress module assembly.

FIG. 17B illustrates comparison mattress profiles that are found among typical mattresses and are provided for comparison to the mattress modules shown in FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18A illustrates top view schematic representations of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using one, two, or three mattress modules.

FIG. 18B illustrates comparison mattress profiles that are found among typical mattresses and are provided for comparison to the mattress modules shown in FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19A shows another mattress module of the present invention wherein the length is equal to the width.

FIG. 19B shows a top view schematic of the mattress module shown in FIG. 19A.

FIG. 20A-20H shows top view schematic representations of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using a plurality of mattress modules of FIG. 19A-B.

FIG. 21A illustrates an example of a mattress system of the present invention formed using pluralities of mattress modules of FIG. 19A, along with a casing in the form of a band, shown in a cutaway view, to contain the modules together.

FIG. 21B illustrates an example of a mattress system of the present invention formed using pluralities of mattress modules of FIG. 19A, along with a selectively closable zippered casing in the form of a bag, shown in a cutaway, to contain the modules together.

FIG. 22 illustrates a top plain view of a bed frame system according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure, wherein the slats are adjustable in length through the use of spring-loaded or otherwise similar retaining pins.

FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of a modular bed frame system according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure.

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of a modular mattress system comprising: a cover, a topper, a casing, and mattress modules according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure, wherein different numbered modules have different stiffnesses or other parameters from each other.

FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of a modular mattress system comprising a cover, a topper, a casing, and mattress modules, wherein the casing has a speaker system and electrical induction chargers positioned therein and hidden from view. These components acoustically and electrically enhance the modular mattress system. Thus, modular mattresses of the present invention can include speakers that are embedded therein and hidden from view, electrical induction chargers that are embedded therein and hidden from view, other types of electrical chargers that are embedded therein and hidden from view, and other electronic devices that are hidden from view and can be beneficially used by an individual using the mattresses, as discussed and shown with respect to FIG. 25 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present disclosure relates to furniture and furniture systems.

The mattress system of the present disclosure may be utilized in various types of modular bed systems. The modular system simplifies manufacturability and durability by enabling the flipping, rotating, relocating and replacement of worn modules, and simplifying packing/shipping by employing a limited number of types of modules to enable the assembly of a variety of different designs. The modular bed system allows modular components to be used to resize or replace mattress components over time. For instance, the modular components forming a twin bed can be utilized in the formation of a Full, Queen, King, and/or California King beds by adding other modular components.

With reference to FIGS. 1A-1B, illustrated is a modular bed system 100 comprised of a modular component 102, the modular component 102 being configured to be combined with other similarly sized or differently sized modular components 102 to form another modular bed system of a requested size. The modular component 102 comprises a mattress module 104 that can be selectively mounted onto a modular base 108, which serves as a bed frame.

Different modular components 102 may be placed adjacent and/or detachably coupled to similar modular components 102 through the use of securing mechanisms on the opposing sides of the modular components 102, as illustrated in the cutaway view of FIG. 1B. For instance, the securing mechanism for securing modular components 102 together can be a hook and loop mechanism, e.g. VELCRO®, one or more zippers, male and female snap members, magnets, hook and latch type fasteners, mechanical interlocks, or any other type of securing means that will facilitate the modular components 102 being selectively coupled to one another.

In FIG. 1B, a second modular component 102 comprising a second mattress module 104 and modular base 108 is shown being selectively secured to modular component 102. Alternatively, a single bed frame (e.g., a rigid, unitary bed frame or an adjustable bed frame) may be used to secure a plurality of mattress modules in a desired configuration to form a completed bed system.

The mattress modules 104 can include materials such as foam, polyurethane, memory foam, coils, pocket coils, DURAFOAM, high-density foam, fabric, batting, and other such materials, for example. In some embodiments, each mattress module 104 may be a dual-comfort module, where a first side of the mattress module 104 provides soft or light support, and a second side provides medium or firm support. The consumer may turn the mattress module 104 so that a particular side of the dual-comfort module is facing up to form the sleeping surface. The advantage of this feature is that the consumer may adjust the support level of the mattress as often as they might prefer.

Individual components of mattress module 104 can include integral or removable toppers formed of down, memory foam, etc., to provide comfort and durability. Removable toppers may be selectively added to provide additional support and customization to the components of the mattress module 104. Mattress toppers may also provide continuity across mattress modules mounted next to each other and prevent splitting or sinking between the mattress modules, such as discussed below with respect to additional embodiments.

The modular components 102 forming a twin bed can be utilized to form Full, Queen, King, and California King beds by adding other modular components. Some embodiments utilize modular components 102 complying with an equation:

y=2x

where x is the component width (W), and y is the component length (L).

In one embodiment of the mattress module assembly 100A-1 of FIG. 2 , for example, the width of mattress module A is 12.5 inches, and the length of the mattress module A is 25.0 inches. This allows a majority of the bed area of the mattress module assembly 100A-1 to use a mattress module A of one size. The twin bed can be increased in size to the Full bed 100A-2 by adding a number of mattress modules A. To form the Queen, King 100A-3, and California King 100A-4 sized beds, one or more mattress modules B and/or mattress modules A and B can be added to form the mattress module assembly 100A. The mattress module B can have a width of 5 inches and a length of 75 inches, for example.

The mattress modules A and B, with associated mattress modules and modular bases, may be manufactured in a number of sizes to allow a user to incrementally add components to create a particular bed size. For example, and as illustrated in FIGS. 2-6 , mattress modules A, B, and C can have various other sizes and be combined in a variety of different orientations.

Table 1 below provides some possible sizes of the mattress modules A-F for the modular mattress assemblies of FIGS. 2-6 . It will be understood that the sizes referenced in Table 1 can apply to mattress modules 104 and/or modular bases 108 on which respective mattress modules 104 may be mounted to form a modular bed system 100.

TABLE 1 Module A Module B Module C Module D Module E Module F (L × W) (L × W) (L × W) (L × W) (L × W) (L × W) FIG. 2 25″ × 12.5″ 75″ × 5″ — — — — FIG. 3 25″ × 39″   25″ × 16″ 25″ × 5″  5″ × 60″ 5″ × 78″ 5″ × 71″ FIG. 4 25″ × 30″  75″ × 4″ 25″ × 25″ 5″ × 60″ 5″ × 38″ 5″ × 33″ FIG. 5 75″ × 13″  75″ × 4″ — — — — FIG. 6 40″ × 13″   35″ × 13″ 40″ × 4″ — — —

The modular combinations described above are non-limiting examples of mattress module, base, and/or modular component combinations which may be utilized to create modular bed systems. In one embodiment, a mattress module, base, and/or modular component can have a length from about 4.0″ to about 85.0″, from about 4.5″ to about 78.0″, from about 5.0″ to about 75.0″, from about 5.5″ to about 72.5″, or from about 6.0″ to about 70.0″, for example. A mattress module, base, and/or modular component can have a width from about 3.0″ to about 85.0″, from about 3.5″ to about 78.5″, from about 4.0″ to about 75.0″, from about 4.5″ to about 72.5″, or from about 5.0″ to about 70.0″, for example.

The number and size of the modular components 102 and their orientation with respect to each other may depend on a user's comfort and support preferences. For example, a user requiring more variation in support (i.e., firm support, soft support, etc.) may prefer a configuration utilizing modular components 102 in order to increase/decrease the degree of support for different areas of the user's body. In such a case, the modular component 102 near the user's hips might have firmer support than the modular component 102 near the user's head or feet. Alternatively, the modular component 102 near the user's hips might have softer support than the modular component 102 near the user's head or feet. Each modular component 102 used in a particular modular bed system 100 can have the same or different support properties. Where two or more persons share the same modular bed system 100, each user may customize their portion of the modular bed system 100 to their support preference. This feature may also be beneficial in places like hotels, guest rooms, and other short-term use situations where the user of the mattress module might change frequently and may prefer a different degree of comfort and support relative to other uses.

In addition to changing the particular modular component 102 and any of the mattress modules 104, the density of modular component 102 can also vary to change the support properties. For instance, for selective support, a higher number of modular components 102 can be used to form the bed area. Conversely, a user who prefers uniform support may prefer a modular bed system 100 having fewer modular components, which may simplify and/or decrease the degree of variation.

In some embodiments, the modular components described above may, in certain combinations, require that a mattress casing be positioned to contain the modular components together and to achieve the correct mattress size. The casing may be sized and shaped to compensate for missing length and/or width and/or depth needed to form a standard-size mattress.

In addition to changing the modules and/or casing that is applied to accommodate various modular mattress sizes, FIG. 7 shows a modular mattress system and corresponding modular bases, wherein mattress modules 116 are selectively coupled to or supported by modular bases 108. A plurality of telescoping slats 118 having a first and second end are selectively connected to a respective modular base 108 through a connector at both the first and second end. The telescoping slats 118 allow for the modular bases 108 to accommodate various sizes and combinations of mattress modules 116.

In another embodiment, shown in FIGS. 8A-8B, a twin XL-size casing 120 in the form of a selectively closable, zippered bag (e.g., a flaccid bag) may be used to contian modules A therein, forming a mattress. In one embodiment, the modules A of FIG. 8B collectively have the size of a twin mattress. As shown, the modules A can be positioned in casing 120 and an extender 128 (e.g., having a smaller width) can be positioned therein to add about 5.0″ of length to the several mattress modules A, in order to convert a twin-size mattress, comprising the three modules A, into a twin XL size mattress, formed by the three modules A and the extender 128 and the casing 120.

The casing 120 in Figure is shown as having an upper section 122 and a lower section 124 joined by a connector 126. The connector 126 shown is a zipper, although buttons, snaps, clips, magnets, or other selectively closing connectors can be used. The casing 120 is configured to selectively contain the mattress modules A placed therein.

In some embodiments, the lower section 124 of the casing 120 includes opposing sides 132 extending upwards from a bottom surface 134, with corners 136 formed therebetween. The components included in the lower section 124 can be formed from a single piece of material. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the corners 136 to be fitted corners or corners with extra elastic properties relative to the rest of the casing 120 so that the corners may be stretched and tightly secured around the mattress modules 114A to provide an increased degree of support to the fully formed mattress.

Thus, in one embodiment, to form a mattress, mattress modules 114A are positioned inside the casing 120. The upper section 122 of the casing 120 is then joined to the lower section 124 of the casing 120 via the connector 126 in order to close the casing. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8B, the upper section 122 is disconnected from the lower section 124 on three sides, forming a flap 130, providing access to the interior of the lower section 124 of the casing 120. In some embodiments, the upper section 122 can be completely removed from the lower section 124 when the casing 120 is opened to place mattress modules 114A inside and then rejoined to form a closed completed mattress. In some embodiments, the upper section 122 and lower section 124 can be equally sized by having the connector 126 positioned at a midpoint of the opposing sides 132 and extending latitudinally around the casing 120.

In some embodiments, the flap 130 can also function and be formed as a mattress topper and can be formed of down, memory foam, etc., to provide an additional degree of customization and support to the mattress modules 114A. When the flap 130 or the upper section 122 of the casing 120 functions as a topper, it can also provide continuity between mattress modules 114A and prevent splitting or sinking between modules.

As shown, in one embodiment, if needed to fill the entire space of the casing 120, an extender 128 is fixed within the interior of the lower section 124 of the casing 120. In some embodiments, the extender 128 can be selectively removable and/or repositionable within the casing 120. In casing 120, the extender 128 is positioned at an end of the casing 120 in order to extend the length of the mattress formed by the mattress modules and the casing. In some embodiments, the extender 128 may be used to expand the size, e.g., the width of the mattress. The extender 128 can be made of materials, such as foam, foam alternatives, polyester blends, quilting, padding, gel, and other similarly resilient materials. The extender 128 must be stiff enough to support a user and not collapse under weight, while providing a comfortable surface. The mattress modules 114A can be placed side by side within the casing 120, and are preferably flush with each other and the extender 128, if an extender is employed, so as to avoid gaps in the mattress. The extender 128 may expand a width and/or length of a mattress.

In another embodiment, however, an extender is not employed, such as when the mattress modules are flush with each other and fill the casing without requiring an extender. This may occur, for example, when module(s) forming a twin XL sized mattress, or other sizes, are placed within an appropriately-spaced, compatible casing that may not require extenders to achieve a desired size.

FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate an alternative embodiment of a mattress casing 138 containing a number of mattress modules A to form a modular mattress in the form of a full-size mattress, for example. The casing 138 can have elastic properties and can be positioned around a number of mattress modules A, such as mattress modules 114A, by securing the casing 138 over corners 146 and then stretching the casing 138 over the remaining mattress modules A. Corners 146 of a selected rigidity or elasticity may be integrally positioned within casing 138. A mattress topper 140 is optionally mounted on the modules 114A. The casing 138 may include extenders 142, fixed within the casing 138, if needed, to extend the length and/or width and/or depth of the mattress modules to form a standard-size mattress. Similar to the extender 128, extender 142 can be made of various materials and should be stiff enough to support a user's weight without collapsing yet provide a comfortable surface similar to a mattress surface.

In one embodiment, a retention band 144 on the peripheral edge of the casing 138 can be used to selectively secure the casing 138 over a number of mattress modules A, such that the casing 138 functions similar to a fitted sheet and/or shower cap, for example, with an elastic, gathered portion formed by the retention band 144. The retention band 144 as shown in FIG. 9C is constructed of elastic material. In another embodiment, the retention band 144 can comprise buttons, snaps, clips, pins, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, or the like.

The casing for a twin-size mattress can add a width at least from about 0.5″, from about 1.0″, or from about 1.5″. For example, a twin-size casing may add a width from about 0.5″ to about 2.0″, or from about 1.0″ to about 1.75″. A casing for a twin XL size mattress may add only length, while some twin XL casings may add both length and width to several modules forming a mattress. As such, a casing for a twin XL size mattress may add at least about 3.0″ in length, at least about 4.0″ in length, or at least about 5.0″ in length. For example, a twin XL casing may add a length of about 3.0″ to about 6.0″, about 3.5″ to about 5.5″, or about 4.0″ to about 5.0″. A casing for a twin XL may also add the width for a twin-size mattress as recited above.

A casing for a full-size mattress can add a width from at least 0.5″, from about 1.0″, or from about 1.5″. For example, a full-size casing may add a width from about 0.5″ to about 3.0″, or from about 1.0″ to about 2.5″. A casing for a full XL size mattress may add only length, while some full XL casings may add both length and width to several modules forming a mattress. As such, a casing for a full XL size mattress may add at least about 3.0″ in length, at least about 4.0″ in length, or at least about 5.0″ in length. For example, a full XL casing may add a length of about 3.0″ to about 6.0″, about 3.5″ to about 5.5″, or about 4.0″ to about 5.0″. A casing for a full XL may also add the width for a full-size mattress as recited above.

A casing for a queen size mattress can add a length from at least about 3.0″, about 4.0″, or about 5.0″. For example, a queen size casing may add a length from about 3.0″ to about 7.0″, from about 4.0″ to about 6.5″, or from about 4.5″ to about 6.0″. A casing for a king size mattress can add a length and/or width to several mattress modules combined to form a king size bed. A king size mattress casing can add a length from at least about 3.0″, about 4.0″, or about 5.0″. For example, a king size casing may add a length from about 3.0″ to about 7.0″, from about 4.0″ to about 6.5″, or from about 4.5″ to about 6.0″. A king size casing can add a width from at least about 1.0″, about 2.0″, or about 3.0″. For example, a king size casing may add a width from about 1.0″ to about 4.0″, from about 2.0″ to about 3.5″, or from about 3.0″ to about 4.0″.

A casing for a California king size mattress can add a length to several mattress modules combined to form a California king size bed. A California king size mattress casing can add a length from at least about 7.0″, about 8.0″, or about 9.0″. For example, a California king size casing may add a length from about 7.0″ to about 12.0″, from about 8.0″ to about 11.00″, or from about 9.0″ to about 10.0″.

Casings of the present invention may be rigid or may be in the form of an elastic band, a selectively closable bag, a fitted sheet with an elastically gathered portion, or combinations thereof, for example. The casing of the present invention may be formed of materials used such as fabric, foam, polyurethane, memory foam, pocket coils, Durafoam, high-density foam, or the like. Some casings may be a rigid or semi-rigid and/or cushioned casing in order to support the weight of a user without collapsing, for example.

The casing disclosed herein are examples of couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress. In one embodiment, a mattress system of the present invention comprises multiple, e.g., 2, 3, 4 or 5, etc., casings having different sizes, such that different mattresses may be formed from the plurality of mattress modules in a given system. For example, in one embodiment a mattress system comprises a first casing having a first size, corresponding to a first mattress, and a second casing having a second size, corresponding to a second mattress.

The disclosures relating to the casings, beds, bases, mattresses, modules, and other features and systems previously described herein can also be applicable to the mattress modules and modular mattress systems described in FIGS. 10A-25 .

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate another example of a mattress module system 150, comprising two different mattress modules 152, 154 of the present invention, the configurations of which can be used to form a variety of different mattress module assemblies when pluralities thereof are combined into different geometries, such as illustrated in FIGS. 11-11I.

As shown in FIGS. 10A-10B, illustrated is another example of a mattress module system 150 comprising a first mattress module 152 labeled as module “I” and a second mattress module 154 labeled as module “J”, each such mattress modules comprised of a respective elastomeric, (e.g., foam) upper portion 156, 158 and an elastomeric (e.g., foam), lower portion 160, 162 having corresponding spring members 164, 166 therebetween encased within a fabric material 168, 170, such as a batting or other fabric.

Mattress modules 152, 154 may be selectively, detachably coupled, through the use of or more couplers, to substantially identically shaped mattress modules 152, 154 to form mattresses corresponding to the module assemblies shown in FIGS. 11A-11I. Such selective, detachable coupling may occur through the use of couplers, such as a casing that holds the mattress modules 152, 154, a rigid frame (e.g., a bed frame), one or more hook and loop mechanisms, e.g., VELCRO®, one or more zippers, male and female snap members, magnets, hook and latch type fasteners, mechanical interlocks or any other type of coupler that will facilitate the mattress modules 152, 154 being selectively coupled to one another. The one or more couplers selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a first modular mattress system mattress that can be placed on a box spring or otherwise used by a user.

Additional accessories can include, for example, one or more removable toppers mounted on top of a mattress module assembly of FIGS. 11A-11I, formed of down, memory foam, etc. to provide comfort and durability, which may be added to provide an additional degree of support and customization to the mattress module assembly. The removable toppers may also provide continuity between mattress module assemblies and prevent splitting or sinking between mattress modules.

In one embodiment, mattress module 152 has dimensions defined by the equation y=2x, wherein x is the component width (W) and y is the component length (L). Mattress module 154 complies with the equation y=x, wherein x is the component width (W) and y is the component length (L).

In one embodiment of mattress module 152, the width is about 9 inches, and the length is about 18 inches, such that y=2x. In one such embodiment, the mattress module 154 width is about 9 inches, and the length is about 9 inches such that y=x. This configuration enables the formation of a variety of mattresses having various sizes, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11I, using a plurality of mattress modules 152, 154, each having at least one of the configurations shown in FIGS. 10A-10B.

As shown, a child's mattress, shown as assembly I-1 in FIG. 11A, measuring approximately 36″ by 54″, can be formed by selectively coupling twelve mattress modules 152, as shown in FIG. 11A. As further shown in FIG. 11B, the assembly can be increased in size to a larger child's mattress module assembly, measuring approximately 36″ by 63″ by adding two additional mattress modules 152 as shown in FIG. 11B as assembly I-2.

To form even larger mattress module assemblies, additional mattress modules 152 and/or 154 can be added as selected by the user, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11I. Examples of the inches of such modular assemblies are shown in FIGS. 11A-11I, and comparison measurements are shown below certain of such measurements in the Figures.

The mattress modules 152, 154 may be manufactured in a number of sizes to allow a user to incrementally add components to create a particular bed size. The modular combinations described above are non-limiting examples of modular component combinations which may be utilized to create the mattress assemblies. The number and size of the modular components used may depend on a user's comfort and support preferences.

In one embodiment, in order to form a modular mattress system, mattress modules 152, 154 are coupled within a casing such as, ones similar to casing 120 of FIGS. 8A-8B, or can be connected via one or more bands wrapped around the mattress modules 152, 154.

FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate another example of a mattress module system 180 of the present invention, comprising two different mattress modules 182, 184 of the present invention, the configurations of which can be used to form a variety of different mattress module assemblies when pluralities thereof are combined into different geometries, such as illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13H, which show top view schematic representations of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using pluralities of the mattress modules of FIGS. 12A-12B.

As shown in FIGS. 12A-12B, illustrated is another example of a mattress module system 180 comprising a first mattress module 182 labeled as module “K” and a second mattress module 184 labeled as module “L,” each such mattress module comprised of a respective elastomeric (e.g., foam) upper portion and an elastomeric (e.g., foam) lower portion having corresponding spring members therebetween encased within a fabric material such as a batting or other fabric.

Mattress modules 182, 184 may be selectively, detachably coupled, through the use of one or more or more couplers, to substantially identically shaped mattress modules 182, 184 to form mattresses corresponding to the mattress module assemblies shown in FIGS. 13A-13H. Such selective, detachable coupling may occur through the use of couplers, such as a casing that holds the mattress modules 182, 184, a rigid frame (e.g., a bed frame or modular base), one or more hook and loop mechanisms, e.g. VELCRO®, one or more zippers, male and female snap members, magnets, hook and latch type fasteners, mechanical interlocks or any other type of coupler that will facilitate the mattress modules 182, 184 being selectively coupled to one another. The one or more couplers selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a first mattress that can be placed on a box spring or otherwise used by a user.

Additional accessories can include, for example, one or more removable toppers mounted on top of a mattress module assembly of FIGS. 13A-13H.

In one embodiment, mattress module 182 has dimensions defined by the equation y=4x, wherein x is the component width (W), and y is the component length (L). Mattress module 154 complies with the equation y=x, wherein x is the component width (W), and y is the component length (L).

In one embodiment of the mattress module 182, the width is about 8 inches, and the length is about 32 inches, such that y=4x. In one such embodiment, the mattress module 184 width is about 8 inches, and the length is about 8 inches such that y=x. This configuration enables the formation of a variety of mattresses having various sizes, as shown in FIGS. 13A-13H, using a plurality of mattress modules 182, 184, each having at least one of the configurations shown in FIGS. 12A-12B.

A child's mattress module assembly, shown as assembly K-1 in FIG. 13A, measuring approximately 40″ by 64″, can be formed by selectively coupling ten mattress modules 182 as shown in FIG. 13A. As further shown in FIG. 13B, the assembly can be increased in size to a larger child's mattress module assembly, measuring approximately 40″ by 72″ by adding additional mattress modules 182 and 184 as shown in FIG. 13B as mattress module assembly K-2.

To form even larger mattress module assemblies, additional mattress modules 182 and/or 184 can be added as selected by the user, as shown in FIGS. 13A-13H. Examples of the inches of such modular assemblies are shown in FIGS. 13A-13H, and comparison measurements are shown below certain of such measurements in the Figures.

The mattress modules 182, 184 (and/or mattress modules 152, 154) may be manufactured in a number of sizes to allow a user to incrementally add or delete components to create a particular bed size. The modular combinations described above are non-limiting examples of modular component combinations which may be utilized to create the mattress assemblies. The number and size of the modular components used may depend on a user's comfort and support preferences.

In one embodiment, in order to form a modular mattress system, mattress modules 182, 184 are coupled within a casing such as or similar to casing 120 of FIGS. 8A-8B or can be connected via one or more bands wrapped around mattress modules 182, 184.

As shown in FIGS. 14A-14B, illustrated is another example of a mattress module system comprising a single mattress module 190 shape labeled as module “M,” such mattress module comprised of a respective elastomeric (e.g., foam) upper portion and an elastomeric (e.g., foam) lower portion having corresponding spring members therebetween encased within a fabric material such as a batting or other fabric.

Mattress module 190 may be selectively, detachably coupled, through the use of or more couplers, to substantially identically shaped mattress modules 190 to form mattresses corresponding to the mattress module assemblies shown in FIGS. 15A-15H. Such selective, detachable coupling may occur through the use of couplers, such as a casing 192 (see FIG. 16A) that holds the mattress modules 190, a rigid frame (e.g., a bed frame), one or more hook and loop mechanisms, e.g., VELCRO®, one or more zippers, male and female snap members, magnets, hook and latch type fasteners, mechanical interlocks or any other type of coupler that will facilitate the mattress modules 190 being selectively coupled to one another. The one or more couplers selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a first modular mattress system that can be placed on a box spring, modular base, or otherwise used by a user.

Additional accessories can include, for example, one or more removable toppers mounted on top of a mattress module assembly of FIGS. 15A-15H.

Mattress module 190 has dimensions defined by the equation y=4x, wherein x is the component width (W), and y is the component length (L). In one embodiment of mattress module 190, the width is about 10 inches, and the length is about 40 inches, such that y=4x. This configuration enables the formation of a variety of mattresses having various sizes, as shown in FIGS. 15A-15H, using a single module design of mattress module 190 rather than employing a plurality of module designs. Having a single module design, i.e., of mattress module 190, it is possible to form a variety of differently shaped mattress module assemblies, ranging from small, medium, large, to extra-large, as shown in FIGS. 15A-15H.

A single module design, i.e., for mattress module 190, allows the formation of a variety of different mattress module assemblies, such as shown in FIGS. 15A-15H, without needing to employ a plurality of designs, a plurality of molds, a plurality of storage assemblies, and other duplicative products or resources. In other words, the ability to form the mattress module assemblies of FIGS. 15A-15H with a single module design, i.e., mattress module 190, has a major advantage in the mattress field because a variety of different mattress module assemblies can be formed employing pluralities of mattress modules 190 have substantially identical shapes and designs. Using a system employing the module design of mattress module 190, it is possible to assemble mattresses for an individual for their entire life using a single module design, i.e., for mattress module 190 and conveniently adjust the size of the mattress by adjusting the number and/or placement of mattress modules 190 having the same module design, rather than requiring multiple module designs.

As shown, a child's mattress module assembly, shown as assembly M-1 in FIG. 15A, measuring approximately 40″ by 64″, can be formed by selectively coupling six mattress modules 190, as shown at FIG. 15A. As further shown in FIG. 15B, the assembly can be increased in size to a larger child's mattress module assembly, measuring approximately 40″ by 70″ by adding one additional mattress module 190, as shown in FIG. 15B as mattress M-2.

To form even larger mattresses, additional mattress modules 190 can be added as selected by the user, as shown in FIGS. 15A-15H. Examples of the inches of such modular assemblies are shown in FIGS. 15A-15H, and certain comparison measurements are shown below such measurements in the Figures.

The mattress modules 190 may be manufactured in a number of sizes to allow a user to incrementally add components to create a particular bed size. The modular combinations described above are non-limiting examples of modular component combinations which may be utilized to create the mattress assemblies. The number and size of the modular components used may depend on a user's comfort and support preferences.

In one embodiment, in order to form a modular mattress system, mattress modules 190 can be coupled within a casing such as or similar to casing 120 of FIGS. 8A-8B.

Optionally, as shown in FIG. 16A, mattress modules 190 can be connected via one or more casing 192 (e.g., elastic casing 192) wrapped around the mattress modules 190 to form the modular mattress system 194 in FIG. 16A. A single mattress module 190 design can be employed, as shown in the modules of the modular mattress system 194 of FIG. 16A. Modular mattress system 194 is formed by coupling multiple mattress modules 190, each having a substantially identical design and geometry of y=4x, to form the modular mattress system 194 of FIG. 16A.

Mattress modules 190 of FIG. 14A, as well as mattress modules 152 and 154 of FIG. 10A, and mattress modules 182 and 184 of FIG. 12A, each have substantially the shape and outline of a rectangular prism, such that, as illustrated in FIG. 16B, pluralities of mattress module 190 fit conveniently like blocks into a connector, such as casing 200 (e.g., a casing 200 comprising fabric material) to form modular mattress system 196.

With respect to the systems of FIGS. 10A-25 , the modularity that is achieved is very useful for the growth and changes of individuals and for adjustment to specific sizes, such that, for example, a certain module system of FIGS. 10A-25 can be purchased when an individual is at a younger age, then additional modules can be purchased as the individual gets older, as opposed to buying an entirely new mattress. Similarly, as a house or room sizes change, e.g., through moving or remodeling, modules can be added or subtracted as needed. Similarly, if a particular module wears out or shows any wear at all, the module can be readily replaced or flipped, as opposed to replacing or flipping an entire mattress. Thus, the use of modules, as referenced with respect to FIGS. 10A-24 , enables the user to save time, space, and money by adding, subtracting, or adjusting individual modules as needed, as opposed to replacing an entire mattress when a change or wear occurs.

While casing 192 and casing 200 and casing 260 are shown as examples of couplers for coupling modules together to form a mattress, a variety of other couplers may be employed. In one embodiment, a mattress system or kit of the present invention includes multiple bands and/or casings or other couplers, each having different sizes to accommodate different numbers of modules and differently sized mattress module assemblies, such as those shown in FIGS. 10A-25 , for example. By way of example, in one embodiment, a system or kit of the present invention has a casing for each size of mattress module assemblies of FIGS. 11A-11I, FIGS. 13A-13H and/or FIGS. 15A-15H, for example, in order to form corresponding mattress systems.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a mattress topper is integrated into the top cover and/or bottom, and/or sides of the casing 200, such that the mattress topper provides additional cushioning and cohesion within the modular mattress system 196, making the mattress more comfortable for the user.

FIG. 17A illustrates a top view schematic representation of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using pluralities of the mattress modules 204 and 206, which have the same dimensions but may have different stiffness levels, depending upon their placement in the mattress module assembly. The disclosures related to any of the other mattress modules described herein may also be applicable to mattress modules 204 and 206. In one embodiment, for example, each of the mattress modules 204 and 206 are about 3.8″×about 7.6″ blocks that be configured into a shape that simulates many existing mattress sizes within a tolerance of approximately 1 inch. These mattress modules 204 and 206 can be sold in various pluralities in such shapes, e.g., 3.8″×7.6″ blocks to form a variety of different mattresses that closely resemble the profiles of popular existing mattresses.

In one embodiment, the border mattress modules, i.e., mattress modules 206, are the same dimension as mattress modules 204, e.g., 3.8″×7.6″, but are formed of a stiffer or more durable material in order to provide greater edge support. The stiffer edge mattress modules might provide more stability. In another embodiment, however, the mattress modules 204 and 206 are the same mattress modules, such that a single mattress module shape can be employed to form a variety of different mattress modules that simulate the profiles of other typical mattresses.

FIG. 17B illustrates comparison mattress profiles that are found among typical mattresses and that are provided for comparison to the mattress modules shown in FIG. 17A. As shown, by using pluralities of the mattress modules 204 and 206 a variety of different mattress module assemblies can be formed, including module assemblies that are substantially similar to typical twin mattresses, typical twin XL mattresses, typical full mattresses, typical full XL mattresses, typical queen mattresses, typical king mattresses, and typical Cal King mattresses.

For example, as shown in FIG. 17A, 100 mattress modules 204-206 can be used to form a mattress module assembly that simulates a twin mattress. As further shown in FIG. 17A, 105 mattress modules 204-206 can be used to form a mattress module assembly that simulates a twin XL mattress. As further shown in FIG. 17A, 140 mattress modules 204-206 can be used to form a mattress module assembly that simulates a full mattress. As further shown in FIG. 17A, 147, 168, 210 , or 209 of mattress modules 204-206 can be used to form a mattress module assembly that simulates a full XL, Queen, King, or Cal King mattress, respectively. In one embodiment, such similarities can be within a tolerance of approximately 1″, similar to commonly used mattresses.

FIG. 17A thus illustrates another example of a mattress module system comprising a single mattress module 204-206 shape known as module “N.”

Such mattress module may be comprised of an elastomeric (e.g., foam) upper portion and an elastomeric (e.g., foam) lower portion having corresponding spring members therebetween encased within a fabric material, such as a batting or other fabric, for example.

Mattress modules 204-206 may be selectively, detachably coupled, through the use of or more couplers, to substantially identically shaped mattress modules 204-206 to form mattresses corresponding to the mattress module assemblies shown in FIG. 17A. Such selective, detachable coupling may occur through the use of couplers, such as a casing 192 (see, e.g., FIG. 16A or FIG. 16B) that holds the mattress modules 204-206, a rigid frame (e.g., a bed frame), one or more hook and loop mechanisms, e.g. VELCRO®, one or more zippers, male and female snap members, magnets, hook and latch type fasteners, mechanical interlocks or any other type of coupler that will facilitate the mattress modules 204-206 being selectively coupled to one another. The one or more couplers selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress that can be placed on a box spring or otherwise used by a user. Additional accessories can include, for example, one or more removable toppers mounted on top of a mattress module assembly in FIG. 17A.

Mattress modules 204-206 each have dimensions defined by the equation y=2x, wherein x is the component width (W), and y is the component length (L). In one embodiment of the mattress modules 204-206, the width is about 3.8 inches, and the length is about 7.6 inches, such that y=2x. This configuration enables the formation of a variety of modular mattress assemblies having various sizes, as shown in FIG. 17A using a single mattress module shape of mattress modules 204-206 rather than employing a plurality of mattress module designs. Having a single mattress module design, i.e., of mattress module 204-206, it is possible to form a variety of differently shaped mattress module assemblies, ranging from small, medium, large, to extra-large, as shown in FIG. 17A.

The mattress modules 204-206 may be manufactured in a number of sizes to allow a user to incrementally add components to create a particular bed size. The modular combinations described above are non-limiting examples of mattress module combinations which may be utilized to create modular mattress assemblies. The number and size of the mattress modules used may be dependent on the comfort and support preferences of a user.

In one embodiment, in order to form a modular mattress system, mattress modules 204-206 can be coupled within a casing such as, or similar to casing 120 of FIGS. 8A-8B, or bands, such as casing 192 of FIG. 16A, or the casing of FIG. 16B.

Mattress modules 204-206 of FIG. 17A each have substantially the shape and outline of a rectangular prism. Thus, pluralities of mattress modules 204-206 can fit conveniently like blocks into a connector, such as a casing or band.

With respect to the systems of FIG. 17A, the modularity that is achieved is very useful for the growth and changes of individuals and for adjustment to specific sizes, such that, for example, a certain module system of FIG. 17A can be purchased when an individual is at a younger age, then additional modules can be purchased as the individual gets older, as opposed to buying an entirely new mattress. Similarly, as a house or room sizes change, e.g., through moving or remodeling, modules can be added or subtracted as needed. Similarly, if a particular module wears out or shows any wear at all, the module can be readily replaced or flipped, as opposed to replacing or flipping an entire mattress. Thus, the use of modules, as referenced with respect to FIG. 17A, enables the user to save time, space, and money by adding, subtracting, or adjusting individual modules as needed as opposed to replacing an entire mattress when a change or wear occurs.

While casing 192, casing 200, and casing 260 are shown as examples of couplers for coupling modules together to form a mattress, a variety of other couplers may be employed. In one embodiment, a mattress system or kit of the present invention includes multiple bands and/or casings or other couplers, each having different sizes to accommodate different numbers of modules and differently sized mattress module assemblies, such as those shown in FIGS. 17A, for example. By way of example, in one embodiment, a system or kit of the present invention has a casing for each size of mattress module assemblies of FIGS. 17A, for example, in order to form corresponding mattress systems. In one embodiment of the present invention, a mattress topper is integrated into the top cover and/or bottom, and/or sides of the casing, such that the mattress topper provides additional cushioning and cohesion within the mattress, making the mattress more comfortable for the user.

FIG. 18A illustrates top view schematic representations of mattress module assemblies of the present invention formed using one, two or three mattress modules, such as any mattress module described herein (the disclosure related to any of the other mattress modules described herein may also be applicable to the mattress modules of FIGS. 18A-18B). FIG. 18B illustrates comparison mattress profiles that are found among typical mattresses and that are provided for comparison to the mattress modules shown in FIG. 18A.

As shown in FIG. 18A, a single mattress module, labeled as module “A”, having a length of about 80 inches and a width of about 38 inches, for example, as shown, can be employed to form a mattress module assembly simulating a twin bed. As further shown, in FIG. 18A that single mattress module A, can be combined with a second mattress module labeled as module “B”, having a length of about 80 inches and a width of about 15.2 inches, for example, as shown, that can be employed to form a second mattress module assembly simulating a Full XL bed. Optionally, as further shown, in FIG. 18A that single mattress module A, can optionally be combined with a third mattress module labelled as module “C”, having a length of about 80 inches and a width of about 22.8 inches, for example, as shown, to form a third mattress module assembly simulating a queen bed. As a further option, as shown in FIG. 18A the mattress module A, can optionally be combined with mattress modules “A”, “B” and “C” to form a fourth mattress module assembly simulating a full king bed.

In other words, three modules, e.g., modules A, B, and/or C can be used to form four different types of mattress module assemblies that are similar to commonly used mattresses. In one embodiment, as illustrated by comparing FIGS. 18A and 18B, such similarities can be within a tolerance of approximately plus or minus 0.8″ similar to commonly used mattresses.

Thus, in one embodiment of FIGS. 18A-B, module “A”, has length of about 80 inches and a width of about 38 inches, module “B”, has a length of about 80 inches and a width of about 15.2 inches, and module “C”, has a length of about 80 inches and a width of about 22.8 inches. These dimensions, each having the same length, can be successfully employed to generate at least four mattresses that are the same as or similar to various typically mattresses commonly in use.

These A, B, C relationships of FIGS. 18A-B are thus very useful, wherein the first mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x); and wherein the second mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to five and a quarter times the width (x); and wherein the third mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to three and a half times the width (x). These relationships can be usually employed to form a variety of different beneficial mattress combinations.

In one embodiment, in order to form a modular mattress system, mattress modules A, B, and/or C, as shown in FIG. 18A and as discussed above, can be coupled within one ore more casings disclosed herein, such as, or similar to casing 120 of FIGS. 8A-8B, casing 192, casing 200, or casing 260, for example. In one such embodiment, multiple casings and multiple modules having the shape of modules A, B, and C are employed in a system that provides a variety of different options of mattresses to be formed by a user.

Mattress modules A, B, and/or C of FIG. 18A may be selectively, detachably coupled in the forms suggested in FIG. 18A through the use of one or more couplers to one or more of modules A, B, and/or C of FIG. 18 to form mattresses corresponding to the assemblies shown in FIG. 18A. Such selective, detachable coupling may occur through the use of couplers, such as a casing 192 (see FIG. 21A), casing 200 of FIG. 21B, a rigid frame (e.g., a bed frame), one or more hook and loop mechanisms, e.g., VELCRO®, one or more zippers, male and female snap members, magnets, hook and latch type fasteners, mechanical interlocks or any other type of coupler that will facilitate the mattress modules being selectively coupled to one another. The one or more couplers selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a first mattress that can be placed on a box spring or otherwise used by a user. Additional accessories can include, for example, one or more removable toppers mounted on top of a mattress modules A, B, and/or C of FIG. 18A.

As shown in FIGS. 19A-B, illustrated is another example of a modular mattress system comprising a mattress module 210 labeled as module “O,” each mattress module comprised of a respective elastomeric (e.g., foam) top end portion 212 and an elastomeric (e.g., foam) bottom end portion 214 of the same dimensions as the upper portion and having corresponding spring members therebetween encased within fabric material such as batting or other fabric.

Mattress modules 210 may be selectively, detachably coupled through the use of one or more couplers to substantially identically shaped mattress modules 210 to form mattresses corresponding to the mattress module assemblies shown in FIGS. 20A-20H, 21A-B, and/or 24-25. Such selective, detachable coupling may occur through the use of couplers, such as a casing 192 (see FIG. 21A) that holds the mattress modules 210, casing 200 of FIG. 21B, a rigid frame (e.g., a bed frame), one or more hook and loop mechanisms, e.g., VELCRO®, one or more zippers, male and female snap members, magnets, hook and latch type fasteners, mechanical interlocks or any other type of coupler that will facilitate the mattress modules 210 being selectively coupled to one another. The one or more couplers selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a first mattress that can be placed on a box spring or otherwise used by a user.

Additional accessories can include, for example, one or more removable toppers mounted on top of a mattress module assembly of FIGS. 20A-21B.

Mattress module 210 has dimensions defined by the equation y=x, wherein x is the component width (W), and y is the component length (L). In one embodiment of mattress module 210, the width is about 10 inches, and the length is about 10 inches, such that y=x. This configuration enables the formation of a variety of mattresses having various sizes, using a single mattress module design of mattress module 210, rather than employing a plurality of mattress module designs. Having a single mattress module design, i.e., of mattress module 210, it is possible to form a variety of differently shaped mattress module assemblies, ranging from small, medium, large, to extra-large.

A single mattress module design, i.e., for mattress module 210, allows the formation of a variety of different mattress modules without needing to employ a plurality of designs, a plurality of molds, a plurality of storage assemblies and other duplicative products or resources. In other words, the ability to form the mattress module assemblies of FIGS. 20A-20H with a single mattress module design, i.e., mattress module 210, has a major advantage in the mattress field because a variety of different mattress module assemblies can be formed employing pluralities of mattress modules 210 have substantially identical shapes and designs. Using a system employing the mattress module design of mattress module 210, it is possible to assemble modular mattress assemblies for an individual for their entire life using a single mattress module design, i.e., for mattress module 210, and conveniently adjust the size of the modular mattress assemblies by adjusting the number and/or placement of mattress modules 210 having the same mattress module design, rather than requiring multiple mattress module designs.

To form larger mattress module assemblies, additional mattress modules 210 can be added as selected by the user, as shown in FIGS. 20A-20H. Examples of the inches of such modular assemblies are shown in FIGS. 20A-20H, and certain comparison measurements are shown below such measurements in the FIGS. 20A-H.

The mattress modules 210 may be manufactured in a number of sizes to allow a user to incrementally add components to create a particular bed size. The modular combinations described above are non-limiting examples of modular component combinations which may be utilized to create the mattress assemblies. The number and size of the modular components used may be dependent on the comfort and support preferences of a user.

In one embodiment, in order to form a mattress, a plurality of mattress modules 210 can be coupled within a casing such as or similar to the casings 120, 192, 200, 260, 260 a shown herein.

As shown in FIG. 21A, mattress modules 210 or can be connected via one or more casing 192 wrapped around the mattress modules 210 to form the mattress 218 shown in FIG. 21A. As shown, mattress module 210 design can be employed in the mattress modules in the mattress module assembly 216 of FIG. 21A. Mattress 218 is formed by coupling multiple mattress modules 210, as shown in FIG. 21A.

Modules 210 of FIG. 19A have substantially the shape and outline of a rectangular prism, such that, as illustrated in FIG. 21B, pluralities of mattress module 210 fit conveniently like blocks into a connector, such as casing 200 to form modular mattress system 220. Another optional casing 200 is shown in FIG. 21B.

With respect to the systems of FIGS. 20A-21B, the modularity that is achieved is very useful for the growth and changes of individuals and for adjustment to specific sizes, such that for example, a certain module system can be purchased when an individual is at a younger age, then additional modules can be purchased as the individual gets older, as opposed to buying an entirely new mattress. Similarly, as a house or room sizes change, e.g., through moving or remodeling, modules can be added or subtracted as needed. Similarly, if a particular module wears out or shows any wear at all, the module can be readily replaced or flipped, as opposed to replacing or flipping an entire mattress. Thus, the use of modules, as referenced with respect to FIG. 19A enables the user to save time, space, and money by adding, subtracting or adjusting individual modules, as needed as opposed to replacing an entire mattress when a change or wear occurs.

While casing 192 and casing 200 in FIGS. 21A-21B are shown as examples of couplers for coupling modules together to form a mattress, a variety of other couplers may be employed. In one embodiment, a mattress system or kit of the present invention includes multiple bands and/or casings or other couplers, each having different sizes to accommodate different numbers of modules and differently sized mattress module assemblies, similar to those shown in FIGS. 20A-20H, for example. By way of example, in one embodiment, a system or kit of the present invention has a casing for each size of mattress module assemblies discussed herein, in order to form corresponding mattress systems.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a mattress topper is integrated into the top cover and/or bottom, and/or sides of the casing 200 of FIG. 21B, such that the mattress topper provides additional cushioning and cohesion within the modular mattress system 218 and 220, making the modular mattress system more comfortable for the user.

In some embodiments, each of the mattress modules disclosed herein are comprised of a respective elastomeric (e.g., foam) top end portion and an elastomeric (e.g., foam) bottom end portion of the same dimensions as the upper portion having corresponding spring members therebetween encased within fabric material such as batting or other fabric.

Turning then to FIG. 22 , a modular base system 230 is illustrated. As depicted, the bed base system includes a frame 238 and slats 232. The frame 238, as illustrated, is supported by a plurality of support structures 244. The slats 232 attach to the frame 238 through connection points, such as catches and securing edges, retention pins and elongated openings, projections and slots, plates, elongated openings, and fasteners, being integrally formed as a monolithic one-piece structure, combinations of these, or similar.

To adapt to the changing size of the modular mattress systems described herein, the frame 238 can be replaced with a larger or smaller sized frame (or in some embodiments selectively resized), and the slats 232 can telescope to extend or contract to adapt to the changed size. As illustrated in FIG. 22 , the slats 232 include a first slat piece 234 and a second slat piece 236, wherein the first slat piece 234 receives the second slat piece 236 within itself such that the second slat piece 236 can slide freely. The second slat portion includes a biased locking pin 240 on the end opposite to its connection point that can be received into complementary opening 242 located on the first slat portion.

In another configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 23 , not only are the slats 232 adjustable, but the base frame is adjustable to form a modular base system 250. As illustrated, modular base system 250 includes walls 252 and base extension members 254. The wall 252 and base extension member 254 are selectively coupled through attachment features such as magnets, fasteners, clips, other mechanical connectors, or similar. In addition, the slat 232, as described in FIG. 22 , may be selectively connected to the wall 252 in the same manner as described in FIG. 22 .

In another embodiment, the wall 252 may be selectively lengthened or shortened through telescopic adjustment, removal or addition of extension pieces, or other similar processes.

FIG. 24 illustrates a modular mattress system comprising; a cover 264, a topper 262, a casing 260, and mattress modules 210 shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B. The casing 260 comprises a compartment for containing mattress modules 210, which are mounted in the compartment in FIG. 24 , and an upper rim extending about the entire periphery of the casing. Topper 262 fits within the perimeter of the rim, enabling topper 262 to selectively fit within and be contained within the rim of the casing 260 on and above the mattress modules 210 within the perimeter of the rim of casing 260, as illustrated in FIG. 24 (and as illustrated in FIG. 25 with respect to casing 260 a).

The cover 264 and/or topper 262 may be selectively attached to the top of the casing through hook and loop fasteners, zippers, clips, button fasteners, other similar mechanical connection methods, a combination thereof, or may be part of the casing 260 in a monolithic construction leaving one or many edges to be sealed by the same methods.

The mattress modules of the present invention, e.g., modules 210 may each have different stiffnesses, and/or may have top and bottom ends with different stiffnesses such that a user can orient stiffer or more flexible modules at desired locations within the mattress. The modules 210 may be marked with indicia, e.g., numbered, e.g., 1, 2, 3, etc. as shown in FIG. 24 with different numbers. The different indicia, i.e., numbers, correspond to different thicknesses and/or stiffnesses or other parameters of modules 210, with modules numbered 1 being the stiffest, for example, modules numbered 2 being less stiff and more flexible, and modules numbered 3 being the least stiff and most flexible, for example. This enables a user to be able to make certain portions of the mattress, e.g., the middle, more flexible, and certain portions, e.g., the perimeter stiffer, for example. Examples of such numbers, or other indicia, corresponding to different stiffness (which can be different stiffness of foam or different stiffness of springs or both) levels are shown for example, in FIG. 24 .

The casings, e.g., casing 260 of the present invention may be comprised of a foam, fabric and/or elastomeric material or other material used in connection with mattresses that has sufficient properties to contain the mattress modules into a combined assembly to form a mattress. The casings of the present invention may have extra padding therein to compensate for certain geometries to be achieved, such as when changing from a smaller mattress to a larger mattress.

With reference now to FIG. 25 , an audio and electronically enhanced bed 257 is shown. The audio and electronically enhanced modular bed 257 comprises a modular mattress system 258 a mounted on a bed frame 259, which is an example of a mattress support for supporting a mattress. The modular mattress system 258 a comprises a topper 262, a cover 264, and modules 210. The casing 260 a is configured with the pockets 273 a-d, 275 a-b to receive electronic devices, such as speakers, induction chargers, WIFI repeaters, etc. therein (e.g., in selectively opened pockets thereof), and mattress modules 210 encased withing casing 260 a. Modules 210 may have different stiffness, as described herein.

In one embodiment, as another advantage of the mattresses/bed frames of the present invention, and for audio/electronic enhancement, audio speakers 272 a-d, induction chargers 274 a-b, WIFI repeaters and/or other electronic devices are embedded within one or more casings 260 a (and/or mattress toppers) of the present invention and are conveniently hidden from view for functional and aesthetic purposes. Such devices provide further options and functionality to a user.

For example, one or more audio speakers 272 a-d and/or induction electrical chargers 274 a-b can be mounted and embedded within one or more corresponding pockets 275 a-d, 275 a-b of casing 260 a and hidden therein from view. The pockets 273 a-d, 275 a-b can be selectively openable and closeable, e.g., with a zipper, buttons, etc., such that speakers/induction chargers can be regularly changed and/or updated and such that a user can place the user's phone(s) or other electronic device(s) in the induction charger pocket(s) 275 a-b for convenient electrical charging of the phone or other device placed adjacent the induction charger(s) 274 a-b.

In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 25 , one or more induction charger(s) 274 a-b (or other electrical chargers) are positioned within casing 260 a adjacent an end of the mattress and away from the center of the mattress so as correspond to approximately shoulder location for a typical user, as shown in FIG. 25 .

In one embodiment, one or more induction charger(s) 274 a-b or other electrical chargers, are positioned within casing 260 a (e.g., within a pocket of casing) such that a user can charge a phone or other electronic device by placing the phone or other electronic device adjacent the portion of the casing 260 a of the mattress where the charger(s) are located, e.g., by placing the phone or other electronic device on the casing 260 a, under the casing 260 a and/or within the pocket(s) 275 a-b of the casing at a location adjacent to the charger(s) 274 a-b. Thus, in one embodiment, one or more induction charger(s) 274 a-b or other electronic chargers, are positioned within a mattress of the present invention (e.g., within pocket(s) thereof) such that a user can charge a phone or other electronic device by placing the phone or other electronic device adjacent a portion of the mattress where the charger(s) are located, e.g, by placing the phone or other electronic device on the mattress, under the mattress and/or within the mattress at a location adjacent to the charger(s).

Thus, for example, a user can charge the user's phone or other electronic device by placing the phone or other electronic device adjacent to or within a pocket 275 a-b corresponding to an induction charger(s) 274 a-b, for example, which may be positioned at a position corresponding to approximate shoulder location on the mattress, e.g., adjacent an end of the mattress and away from the center of the mattress.

As mentioned in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/300,148 filed Apr. 13, 2023, entitled ELECTRONIC FURNITURE SYSTEMS WITH INTEGRATED INDUCTION CHARGER, which is incorporated herein by reference, an induction charger could be provided in a mattress or box spring. An induction charging zone can be provided for an electronic device that is selectively mounted (e.g., wedged or friction fitted) between the mattress and the box spring. Thus, in one embodiment, an induction charging zone is formed by a mattress on top of a box spring such that the device to be charged is selectively mounted between the mattress and the box spring.

In one embodiment, an induction charger(s), e.g., charger(s) 274 a-b is positioned on casing 260 a such that a phone or other electronic device can be mounted (i) between casing 260 a and a mattress support on which casing 260 a is mounted, such as bed frame 259, where an induction charging zone is formed, such that the phone or other electronic device receives an electrical charge; or (ii) between casing 260 a and a box spring which serves as the mattress support or a box spring which is mounted on bed frame, where an induction charging zone is formed, such that the phone or other electronic device receives an electrical charge. Thus, by mounting a phone or other electrical device between casing 260 a and a mattress support (such as a bed frame 259 or a box spring, on which casing 260 a is mounted) where an induction charging zone is formed, the phone or other electronic device receives an electrical charge.

In other words, the mattress 258 a of the present invention is configured such that one or more induction charger(s) are positioned within the mattress such that by mounting the mattress 258 a on a mattress support, such as a bed frame 259 or box spring, an electrical charging zone is formed, such that by mounting a phone or other electrical device between the mattress and the mattress support, e.g., bed frame 259 (or a box spring) on which the mattress is mounted, at a location adjacent the induction charger(s), the phone or other electronic device receives an electrical charge.

Thus, the audio speaker(s), and the induction charger(s) (which provide wireless electrical charging to various electrical devices selectively mounted on a mattress) and other electronic devices may each be covered by and mounted with the casing 260 a, such that the speaker(s) and charger(s) are embedded within the casing 260 a of the mattress and are conveniently hidden from view for aesthetic purposes. This allows the user to conveniently listen to music from the speakers (e.g., wired speakers or wireless speakers, such as Bluetooth operated speakers) and/or wirelessly charge an electrical device by placing the device adjacent the embedded, hidden induction charger(s) without requiring or seeing any unsightly or tangled cords or wires.

The speakers, for instance, can be oriented and configured to provide premium surround sound, and can optionally form part of a smart home system, home entertainment system and/or home audio and/or video system. Thus, audio enhanced modular bed 257 and other mattresses and modular mattress systems described herein, can have audio speakers and electrical induction charger(s) embedded therein and hidden from view for conveniently listening to music, etc. from hidden speakers (e.g., surround sound speakers) and for convenient integrated wireless charging of electrical devices via electrical induction chargers that are hidden from view, such as described, for example, in the patent application entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SOUND LOSS THROUGH PARTIALLY ACOUSTICALLY TRANSPARENT MATERIALS, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/178,319, filed Mar. 3, 2023, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. In yet another embodiment, the audio speakers and/or electrical induction chargers are mounted in a mattress topper of a modular mattress system for convenient wireless charging of electrical devices and for listening to speakers that are hidden from view.

Casing 260 a has a casing speaker system 270, comprising the speakers 272 a-d for acoustically enhancing the modular mattress system 258 a. Additionally, the casing 260 a includes the induction chargers 274 a-b mounted therein for electronically enhancing the modular mattress system 258 a.

Speakers 272 a-d and induction chargers 274 a-b are in electrical communication with subwoofer speaker 276 (e.g., via respective cords 278 and/or wirelessly) mounted on bed frame 259, such as discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/178,319, filed Mar. 3, 2023, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SOUND LOSS THROUGH PARTIALLY ACOUSTICALLY TRANSPARENT MATERIALS, which is incorporated herein by reference. The casing speaker system 272 a-d and subwoofer speaker 276, and induction chargers 274 a-b can be positioned, implemented, and operated, for example, as discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/178,319, filed Mar. 3, 2023, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SOUND LOSS THROUGH PARTIALLY ACOUSTICALLY TRANSPARENT MATERIALS, which is incorporated herein by reference. Subwoofer speaker 276 (and optionally other speakers) may be mounted (e.g., selectively mounted) onto the underside of bed frame 259, so as to be hidden from view, such as discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/178,319, filed Mar. 3, 2023, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SOUND LOSS THROUGH PARTIALLY ACOUSTICALLY TRANSPARENT MATERIALS, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Casing speaker system 272 a-d is thus a speaker system comprising at least one speaker that is hidden from view. The casing speaker system can comprise: (a) one or more speakers mounted within a mattress casing and being hidden from view within the mattress casing; (b) a receiver or other component (such as, but not limited, to a controller included with the subwoofer speaker 276 or a separate controller, amplifier, etc.); and (c) at least one speaker controller (e.g., remote controller, application or “app” for a phone, tablet, mobile device, etc.) configured to control the one or more speakers of the casing speaker system either directly or through the receiver or other component. Each speaker of the speaker system can be configured to be tuned using the at least one speaker controller.

For instance, in one embodiment, the tuning profile of each speaker is selectable via a user interface on the speaker controller, with the speaker controller selectively communicating with the at least one receiver or other component, or the tuning profile of each speaker is selectable via a dedicated control console, the control console selectively communicating with at least one receiver or other component, or the tuning profile of each speaker is selectable via a dedicated remote controller, the remote controller selectively communicating with at least one receiver or other component. In one embodiment, the at least one receiver or other component comprises a plurality of dedicated receivers or other components, each dedicated receiver or other component dedicated to an individual speaker of the speaker system; and wherein the tuning profile of each speaker is separately selectable via a user interface on a speaker controller, the speaker controller selectively communicating with the dedicated speaker receiver or other component of each speaker, or the tuning profile of each speaker is selectable via a dedicated control console, the control console selectively communicating with the dedicated speaker receiver or other component of each speaker, or the tuning profile of each speaker is selectable via a dedicated remote controller, the remote controller selectively communicating with the dedicated speaker receiver or other component of each speaker.

The structure and positioning and tuning of speakers is strategically useful to the sound and fidelity of the speakers. The speakers of the present invention are tuned in order to emit sound in a high-quality manner. A user may control overall sound volume, sound volume of one or more of the speakers, frequency boosting (or attenuation) of one of more frequency bands associated with any of the speakers, or other controls that a user may desire to manipulate. Such a speaker controller or speaker control component, e.g., a remote controller or a phone app, for example, may transmit signals or instructions through an electrical wired connection or wirelessly from a location that is remote from or at the mattress system 258 a.

In certain embodiments, control of any of the desired parameters may be provided through a cellular phone app (smart phone app) or other software application that can be provided in any desired interface. For example, in the smartphone portable device, tablet, or other device accessible to the user, a user may make particular selections, after which the device may wirelessly transmit control signals to a receiver or other component (such as, but not limited, to a controller included with the subwoofer speaker 276 or a separate controller, amplifier, etc.), then implement any desired changes to parameters as instructed by a user. The receiver may be capable of receiving and/or transmitting through WIFI, Blue-tooth, or other wireless system, so as to communicate with such an app, to communicate with the associated transmitter, etc.

Casing speaker system 272 a-d and subwoofer speaker 276 mounted on bed frame 259 are examples of a bed speaker system comprising (i) a first speaker (e.g. speakers 272 a-d) mounted in the mattress (i.e., the mattress casing) that is hidden from view; and (ii) a second speaker 276 (subwoofer speaker) mounted on the bed frame 259 that is hidden from view; and (iii) at least one speaker controller (e.g., remote controller or phone app) configured to control the one or more speakers of the casing speaker system.

The speakers, chargers, induction chargers, and other electronic components are hidden from view under a sheet that the user uses to cover the mattress of the present invention and/or by being otherwise positioned within the mattress casing such that they are not visible.

In the audio-enhanced bed of FIG. 25 , one or more speakers coupled to the bed frame comprises a subwoofer speaker and the speaker system further comprises an amplifier and receiver and related components associated with the subwoofer speaker 276 and/or coupled to the bed frame 259, such that the subwoofer, amplifier, and receiver are embedded and concealed under or within the bed frame 259.

The concept of casing 260 a having speakers 272 a-d therein has many advantages, particularly when combined with the subwoofer speaker 276 coupled to bed frame 259 such that the speakers 272 a-d and subwoofer speaker 276 are in communication and combine to acoustically enhance the audio enhanced modular bed system 257. Placing the speakers 272 a-d in casing 260 a protects the speakers against the weight of the user, which is borne by the one or more modules 210 within the center of the mattress. This also allows the speakers 272 a-d to be on the periphery of the mattress for bouncing the signal emitted from the speakers against the walls of the room, enhancing the sound attributes of the signals through reflected sound. The subwoofer speaker 276 and speakers 272 a-d provide both sound and vibration for an overall enhanced sound and tactile music listening experience. The speakers 272 a-d can be conveniently changed and serviced as needed, among other advantages.

Another advantage of the speakers 272 a-d being mounted in a casing 260 a comprising a fabric material is that the casing 260 a with speakers therein or removed therefrom can be conveniently wrapped up and stored in a compact location when not in use.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, speakers such as speakers 272 a-d and induction chargers, such as induction chargers 274 a-b, are mounted within frame rails of a bed frame, upon which a mattress can be mounted, and are in electrical communication with a subwoofer 276 mounted on the bed frame, so as to be hidden from view, such as discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/178,319, filed Mar. 3, 2023, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SOUND LOSS THROUGH PARTIALLY ACOUSTICALLY TRANSPARENT MATERIALS, which is incorporated herein by reference.

As referenced herein, bed frame 259 is an example of a mattress support, upon which a mattress, such as mattress system 258 a of FIG. 25 can be conveniently mounted. As further illustrated in FIG. 25 , bed frame 259 can also be representative of a box spring upon which a mattress may be mounted, the box spring having subwoofer 276 and its related components positioned therein and mounted thereto. Thus, the disclosure herein relating to the subwoofer and other speaker components and electronic components coupled to and/or positioned within the bed frame 259, such as the disclosure relating to FIG. 25 , can also apply to a subwoofer and other speaker components and electronic components coupled to and/or positioned within a box spring. Such a box spring can in turn be mounted on a bed frame, for example.

The mattress casings of the present invention, e.g., casings 120, 138, 260, 260 a and the other casings mentioned herein may be in the form of a rigid or semi-rigid frame, a bag, and/or band, for example, and may be comprised of a variety of different materials that allow them to contain the modules of the present invention and retain the modules in an organized and unified manner, such that the modules and casing form a mattress. For example, casings 120, 138, 260, 260 a and the other casings herein may be comprised of various types of rigid, semi-rigid and/or flaccid materials, such as foam, fabric, linen, and/or other materials and may have pockets and zippers or other connectors therein, such as VELCRO, buttons, snaps, etc.

Following are some further example embodiments of the invention. These are presented only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Embodiment 1: A modular mattress system, comprising: a plurality of substantially identically shaped mattress modules configured to selectively form a first mattress module assembly having a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to selectively form a second mattress module assembly having a second selected geometry; and one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.

Embodiment 2: A modular mattress system as recited in embodiment 1, wherein the plurality of mattress modules each have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).

Embodiment 3: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-2, wherein the mattress modules have different stiffnesses, such that a user can orient stiffer or more flexible modules at desired locations within the mattress.

Embodiment 4: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-3, wherein a first plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x).

Embodiment 5: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-4, wherein a second plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).

Embodiment 6: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-5, wherein a first plurality of mattress modules has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to four times the width (x).

Embodiment 7: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-6, wherein a second plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).

Embodiment 8: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-7, wherein each of the mattress modules has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to four times the width (x).

Embodiment 9: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-8, wherein each of first mattress module assembly and the second mattress module assembly are formed using mattress modules having substantially identical shapes and geometries.

Embodiment 10: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-9, wherein each of the modules substantially has the shape of a rectangular prism.

Embodiment 11: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-10, wherein the one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress comprises a casing configured to contain the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.

Embodiment 12: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-11, further comprising one or more extenders within the mattress casing for increasing the size of the mattress formed using the casing.

Embodiment 13: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-12, wherein the one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress comprise a first casing having a first size, corresponding to a first mattress, and a second casing having a second size, corresponding to a second mattress.

Embodiment 14: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-13, further comprising one or more supplementary mattress modules configured to be combined with said plurality of substantially identically shaped mattress modules, each of the supplementary mattress modules having a different shape from said substantially identically shaped mattress modules.

Embodiment 15: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-14, wherein the one or more supplementary mattress modules comprises a plurality of substantially identically shaped supplemental mattress modules.

Embodiment 16: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 1-15, wherein the one or more substantially identically shaped mattress modules each have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to four times the width (x).

Embodiment 17: A modular mattress system, comprising: (1) a plurality of substantially identically shaped mattress modules configured to selectively form a first mattress module assembly having a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to selectively form a second mattress module assembly having a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is: (1) substantially equal to two times the width (x); or (2) substantially equal to four times the width (x); and (2) one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.

Embodiment 18: A modular mattress system as recited in embodiment 17, further comprising additional substantially identically shaped mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).

Embodiment 19: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 17-18, wherein each of the modules substantially has the shape of a rectangular prism.

Embodiment 20: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 17-19, wherein the one or more couplers is a mattress casing.

Embodiment 21: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 17-20, further comprising one or more extenders selectively mounted within the mattress casing for increasing the size of the mattress formed using the casing.

Embodiment 22: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 17-21, further comprising a mattress topper configured to provide additional cushioning and comfort to a user, wherein the mattress topper is integrated into the mattress casing.

Embodiment 23: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 17-22, wherein each mattress module has a length and a width, wherein the length is substantially equal to 4 times greater than the width.

Embodiment 24: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 17-23, further comprising one or more additional mattress modules each having a length (y′) that is substantially equal to a width x thereof.

Embodiment 25: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 17-24, wherein the one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a first mattress comprise a first casing having a first size, corresponding to a first mattress, and a second casing having a second size, corresponding to a second mattress, and a third casing having a third size, corresponding to a third mattress.

Embodiment 26: A modular mattress system, comprising: (1) a plurality of mattress modules configured to form a first modular mattress of a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to form a second modular mattress of a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to four times the width (x); and (2) one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.

Embodiment 27: A modular mattress system as recited in embodiment 26, wherein the length (y) of each mattress module is equal to four times the width (x) thereof.

Embodiment 28: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 26-27, wherein a second plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).

Embodiment 29: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 26-28, wherein the second plurality of mattress modules each have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is equal to the width (x).

Embodiment 30: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 26-29, wherein the coupler is an elastic casing and further comprising a mattress topper configured to provide additional cushioning and comfort to a user, the topper integrally mounted within the casing.

Embodiment 31: A modular mattress system, comprising: (1) a plurality of mattress modules configured to form a first modular mattress of a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to form a second modular mattress of a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x); and (2) one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.

Embodiment 32: A modular mattress system as recited in embodiment 31, wherein the length (y) of each mattress module is equal to two times the width (x) thereof.

Embodiment 33: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 31-32, wherein a second plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).

Embodiment 34: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 31-33, wherein the second plurality of mattress modules each have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is equal to the width (x).

Embodiment 35: A modular mattress system, comprising: (1) a first plurality of mattress modules and a second plurality of mattress modules, the first and second pluralities of mattress modules configured to form a first mattress module assembly of a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to form a second mattress module assembly of a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules of the first plurality of mattress modules and the second plurality of mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein a stiffness of the second plurality of mattress modules has a different stiffness than the first plurality of mattress modules; and wherein the second plurality of mattress modules are configured to be placed around a periphery of the first mattress module assembly; and (2) one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.

Embodiment 36: A modular mattress system as recited in embodiment 35, wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x).

Embodiment 37: A modular mattress system, comprising: (1) a first mattress module; (2) a second mattress module; and (3) a third mattress module, wherein the first, second, and third mattress modules are configured such that a user can use: (A) the first mattress module to form a first mattress module assembly of a first selected geometry; (B) the first and second mattress modules to form a second mattress module assembly of a second selected geometry; (C) the first and third mattress modules to form a third mattress module assembly of a third selected geometry; or (D) the first, second, and third mattress modules to form a fourth mattress module assembly of a fourth selected geometry; and (4) one or more couplers configured to selectively secure selected modules to form a mattress.

Embodiment 38: A modular mattress system as recited in embodiment 37, wherein the first, second, and third mattress modules each have the same length.

Embodiment 39: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 37-38, wherein the first, second, and third mattress modules each have the same length and wherein the width of the second mattress module is less than the width of the first mattress modules and less than the width of the third mattress moudule.

Embodiment 40: A modular mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 37-39, wherein the first mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x); and wherein the second mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to five and a quarter times the width (x); and wherein the third mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to three and a half times the width (x).

Embodiment 41: A modular mattress system, comprising: (1) a plurality of mattress modules, the pluralities of mattress modules configured to form a first mattress module assembly of a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to form a second mattress module assembly of a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules of having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x), each of the mattress modules of the having a top end portion and bottom end portion, wherein the top end portion has the same dimensions as the bottom end portion; and (2) one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.

Embodiment 42: A modular mattress system as recited in embodiment 41, wherein a stiffness of a first plurality of mattress modules is different from a stiffness of a second plurality of mattress modules.

Embodiment 43: A modular mattress system, comprising: (1) a plurality of substantially identically shaped mattress modules configured to selectively form a first mattress module assembly having a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to selectively form a second mattress module assembly having a second selected geometry; and (2) one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress, the coupler comprising a casing configured to contain the mattress modules together to form the mattress.

Embodiment 44: A mattress system as recited in embodiment 43, further comprising an extender configured to be mounted within an interior of the casing.

Embodiment 45: A mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 43-44, wherein the extender is selectively removable and/or repositionable within the casing.

Embodiment 46: A mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 43-45, wherein the extender is positioned within the casing in order to extend a size of the mattress formed by the mattress modules and casing.

Embodiment 47: a mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 43-46, wherein the extender is positioned within the casing in order to avoid gaps in the mattress.

Embodiment 48: An audio-enhanced mattress system, comprising: (1) one or more mattress modules; (2) a mattress casing configured to contain the one or more mattress modules in order to form a mattress; and (3) a speaker system positioned within the mattress casing, the speaker system comprising one or more speakers mounted within the mattress casing.

Embodiment 49: An audio-enhanced mattress system as recited in embodiment 48, wherein the speaker system is hidden from view, wherein the one or more speakers is embedded and concealed within the mattress casing.

Embodiment 50: An audio-enhanced mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 48-49, wherein the speaker system further comprises a second speaker embedded and concealed within the mattress casing.

Embodiment 51: A mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 48-50, wherein the speakers of the speaker system are selectively positioned within one or more pockets of the casing, such that the speakers can be conveniently removed.

Embodiment 52: A mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 48-51, wherein an induction charger is positioned in the mattress or within a mattress support upon which the mattress is mounted, such that a user can charge an electronic device by placing the electronic device adjacent a portion of the mattress where the charger is located or a mattress support where the charger is located, the mattress support comprising a bed frame or a box spring.

Embodiment 53: An electronically-enhanced mattress system, comprising: (1) one or more mattress modules; (2) a mattress casing configured to contain the one or more mattress modules in order to form a mattress; and (3) an electrical charger positioned within the mattress, such that a user can charge an electronic device by placing the electronic device adjacent a portion of the mattress where the electrical charger is located.

Embodiment 54: An electronically enhanced mattress system as recited in embodiment 53, wherein the electrical charger is an induction charger.

Embodiment 55: An electronically enhanced mattress system as recited in any of embodiments 53-54, wherein the electrical charger is embedded and hidden from view within the mattress.

Embodiment 56: An audio-enhanced bedding system, comprising: (1) an audio-enhanced mattress, comprising: one or more mattress modules; and a mattress casing configured to contain the one or more mattress modules in order to form a mattress; (2) a mattress support configured to receive the mattress thereon; and (3) a speaker system comprising (i) one or more speakers positioned within the mattress casing; and (ii) one or more speakers coupled to the mattress support.

Embodiment 57: An audio-enhanced bedding system as recited in embodiment 56, wherein the mattress support comprises a bed frame or a box spring support.

Embodiment 58: An audio-enhanced bed as recited in any of embodiments 56-57, wherein the one or more speakers coupled to the mattress support comprises a subwoofer speaker.

Embodiment 59: The audio-enhanced bed of any of claims 56-58, wherein the speaker system further comprises an amplifier and a receiver associated with the subwoofer speaker.

Embodiment 60: The audio-enhanced bed of embodiment 56-59, wherein the subwoofer is embedded and concealed under or within the mattress support.

Embodiment 61: An audio-enhanced bed as recited in any of embodiments 56-60, wherein the speakers in the mattress casing are selectively positioned within one or more pockets of the mattress casing, such that the speakers can be conveniently removed.

Embodiment 62: An audio-enhanced bed as recited in any of embodiments 56-61, wherein an induction charger is provided in the mattress or mattress support.

Embodiment 63: An audio-enhanced bed as recited in any of embodiments 56-62, wherein an induction charging zone is formed by the mattress on top of the mattress support, such that said induction charging zone is provided to an electronic device that is selectively mounted between the mattress and the mattress support, wherein the device to be charged is selectively mounted between the mattress and the mattress support.

Embodiment 64: An audio-enhanced bed as recited in any of embodiments 56-63, wherein the mattress is configured such that an induction charger is positioned within the mattress, such that, by mounting the mattress on the mattress support, an electrical charging zone is formed between the mattress and the mattress support, such that by mounting an electronic device between the mattress and the mattress support, the electronic device receives an electrical charge, wherein the mattress support is a bed frame or a box spring.

Embodiment 65: An electronically-enhanced bed, comprising: (1) a mattress; (2) a box spring; and (3) an electronic charger provided in the mattress or box spring, wherein an induction charging zone is formed by the mattress on top of the box spring, such that said induction charging zone is provided to an electronic device that is selectively mounted between the mattress and the box spring.

Embodiment 66: A bed as recited in embodiment 65, wherein the device to be charged is selectively mounted between the mattress and the box spring.

The articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements in the preceding descriptions. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Additionally, it should be understood that references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values stated herein are intended to include that value, and also other values that are “about” or “approximately” the stated value, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art encompassed by embodiments of the present disclosure. A stated value should therefore be interpreted broadly enough to encompass values that are at least close enough to the stated value to perform a desired function or achieve a desired result. The stated values include at least the variation to be expected in a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may include values that are within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, or within 0.01% of a stated value.

A person having ordinary skill in the art should realize in view of the present disclosure that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and alterations may be made to embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Equivalent constructions, including functional “means-plus-function” clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function, including both structural equivalents that operate in the same manner, and equivalent structures that provide the same function. It is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke means-plus-function or other functional claiming for any claim except for those in which the words ‘means for’ appear together with an associated function. Each addition, deletion, and modification to the embodiments that falls within the meaning and scope of the claims is to be embraced by the claims.

The terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within more or less than 10% of, within more or less than 5% of, within more or less than 1% of, within more of less than 0.1% of, and/or within more less than 0.01% of a stated amount. Further, it should be understood that any directions or reference frames in the preceding description are merely relative directions or movements. For example, any references to “up” and “down” or “above” or “below” are merely descriptive of the relative position or movement of the related elements.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 

1. A modular mattress system, comprising: a plurality of substantially identically shaped mattress modules configured to selectively form a first mattress module assembly having a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to selectively form a second mattress module assembly having a second selected geometry; and one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.
 2. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 1, wherein the plurality of mattress modules each have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).
 3. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 2, wherein the mattress modules have different stiffnesses, such that a user can orient stiffer or more flexible modules at desired locations within the mattress.
 4. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 1, wherein a first plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x).
 5. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 4, wherein a second plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).
 6. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 1, wherein a first plurality of mattress modules has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to four times the width (x).
 7. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 6, wherein a second plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).
 8. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 1, wherein each of the mattress modules has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to four times the width (x).
 9. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 8, wherein each of first mattress module assembly and the second mattress module assembly are formed using mattress modules having substantially identical shapes and geometries.
 10. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 8, wherein each of the modules substantially has the shape of a rectangular prism.
 11. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 1, wherein the one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress comprises a casing configured to contain the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.
 12. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 11, further comprising one or more extenders within the mattress casing for increasing the size of the mattress formed using the casing.
 13. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 1, wherein the one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress comprise a first casing having a first size, corresponding to a first mattress, and a second casing having a second size, corresponding to a second mattress.
 14. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 1, further comprising one or more supplementary mattress modules configured to be combined with said plurality of substantially identically shaped mattress modules, each of the supplementary mattress modules having a different shape from said substantially identically shaped mattress modules.
 15. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 14, wherein the one or more supplementary mattress modules comprises a plurality of substantially identically shaped supplemental mattress modules.
 16. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 15, wherein the one or more substantially identically shaped mattress modules each have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to four times the width (x).
 17. A modular mattress system, comprising: a plurality of substantially identically shaped mattress modules configured to selectively form a first mattress module assembly having a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to selectively form a second mattress module assembly having a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is: (1) substantially equal to two times the width (x); or (2) substantially equal to four times the width (x); and one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.
 18. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 17, further comprising additional substantially identically shaped mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).
 19. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 18, wherein each of the modules substantially has the shape of a rectangular prism.
 20. (canceled)
 21. (canceled)
 22. (canceled)
 23. (canceled)
 24. The modular mattress system as recited in claim 23, further comprising one or more additional mattress modules each having a length (y′) that is substantially equal to a width x thereof.
 25. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 17, wherein the one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a first mattress comprise a first casing having a first size, corresponding to a first mattress, and a second casing having a second size, corresponding to a second mattress, and a third casing having a third size, corresponding to a third mattress.
 26. A modular mattress system, comprising: a plurality of mattress modules configured to form a first modular mattress of a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to form a second modular mattress of a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to four times the width (x); and one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.
 27. (canceled)
 28. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 26, wherein a second plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).
 29. (canceled)
 30. (canceled)
 31. A modular mattress system, comprising: a plurality of mattress modules configured to form a first modular mattress of a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to form a second modular mattress of a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x); and one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.
 32. (canceled)
 33. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 32, wherein a second plurality of mattress modules have a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to the width (x).
 34. (canceled)
 35. A modular mattress system, comprising: a first plurality of mattress modules and a second plurality of mattress modules, the first and second pluralities of mattress modules configured to form a first mattress module assembly of a first selected geometry and being reconfigurable to form a second mattress module assembly of a second selected geometry, each of the mattress modules of the first plurality of mattress modules and the second plurality of mattress modules having a width (x) and a length (y), wherein a stiffness of the second plurality of mattress modules has a different stiffness than the first plurality of mattress modules; and wherein the second plurality of mattress modules are configured to be placed around a periphery of the first mattress module assembly; and one or more couplers configured to selectively secure the plurality of mattress modules to form a mattress.
 36. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 35, wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x).
 37. A modular mattress system, comprising: a first mattress module; a second mattress module; and a third mattress module, wherein the first, second, and third mattress modules are configured such that a user can use: (A) the first mattress module to form a first mattress module assembly of a first selected geometry; (B) the first and second mattress modules to form a second mattress module assembly of a second selected geometry; (C) the first and third mattress modules to form a third mattress module assembly of a third selected geometry; or (D) the first, second, and third mattress modules to form a fourth mattress module assembly of a fourth selected geometry; and one or more couplers configured to selectively secure selected modules to form a mattress.
 38. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 37, wherein the first, second, and third mattress modules each have the same length.
 39. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 37, wherein the first, second, and third mattress modules each have the same length and wherein the width of the second mattress module is less than the width of the first mattress modules and less than the width of the third mattress module.
 40. A modular mattress system as recited in claim 37, wherein the first mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to two times the width (x); and wherein the second mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to five and a quarter times the width (x); and wherein the third mattress module has a width (x) and a length (y), wherein the length (y) is substantially equal to three and a half times the width (x). 41.-64. (canceled) 